2012 Media Releases

Public Urged to Help Prevent Pool Closings

Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department and Lincoln Parks and Recreation officials today asked for the public's help following the temporary closing of three pools caused by recent diarrheal incidents. Within the last week, three separate incidents have resulted in the closing of Eden and Highlands pools in Lincoln and the pool in Waverly. All three pools have reopened. Treatment guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control require a pool or spray park to be closed for about two days after an incident.

City officials are urging parents and caregivers not to bring their children to the pool if they or their children are experiencing diarrhea. The recommendation is to wait at least 48 hours between the last loose stool movement and swimming. Health officials stress that diapers, even swim diapers, do not offer protection if a child has runny stools.

"The child should not be at the pool or spray park if they have experienced any diarrheal symptoms within the last 48 hours," said Judy Halstead, Health Director. "If in doubt, do not go to a swimming facility. Please be considerate of others." Halstead said there is no current disease outbreak in the community.

"We are asking residents to help protect everyone's health in our community and assist us in keeping the pools and spray parks open for summer fun." said Lynn Johnson, Lincoln Parks and Recreation Director. "